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Friday, March 19, 2010

Obsession of the Moment: Anything and Everything Tom Binns

Have you ever found a designer that just speaks to you? I mean, each and every single piece just makes your mouth water, your breath catch, your eyes sparkle? Such is the case for me with Tom Binns. Years ago, my mother and I were walking by Henri Bendel and stopped dead in our tracks to view the amazing display of his jewelry in the window -- and I've been hooked ever since. This visionary jewelry designer continues to think outside the box, creating collections like his recent Alice in Wonderland that thrill and delight me over and over. After the jump, some of the pieces that are currently making my heart race.Tom Binns for Disney Couture Alice in Wonderland Charm Necklace ($175): Don't be late for this very important date! Hanging from multitudes of interwoven gold chains are charms depicting Alice's fall down the rabbit hole.

Classic Gold Safety Pin Earrings ($220): When I first got my ears pierced, I always wondered what it would be like to hang safety pins through the holes. (Hey, it was the 80's.) Now I know -- always and eternally rocker cool.

Tough Chic Swarovski Skull Bracelet ($140): If anyone could manage to make a skull not seem completely macabre, it would be Tom Binns. Somehow this bracelet comes across as elegant and sophisticated rather than dark and depressing.

Classic 18-Karat Gold-Plated Ring ($190): I've been looking for a statement-making ring, and I believe this is it. I love the gilded, curved exterior and the weighty yet unoppressive shape.